Evri: More Like "Never-ri" - A Black Hole for Your Parcels

Let me preface this by saying that Evri, or whatever rebranding exercise they've attempted to mask their utter incompetence, is not a delivery service. It's a black hole into which your online purchases disappear, only to resurface weeks later (if you're lucky), battered, bruised, and smelling faintly of despair.

Over the past few months, my experience with this shambolic excuse for a courier has gone beyond frustrating; it's become a source of genuine anxiety. From essential dog food subscriptions to eagerly awaited eBay finds, the pattern is consistently abysmal. My parcels seem to have taken up permanent residency somewhere in the nebulous void of "West Cumbria," a geographical Bermuda Triangle where packages go to die a slow, agonising death of delay.

Their supposed "48-hour" delivery promise is a joke so stale it could crumble into dust. More accurately, it feels like Evri operates on a "whenever we can be bothered, maybe CU Next Tuesday" schedule. My growing suspicion is that they've abandoned any semblance of timely delivery in my area, opting instead for some bizarre weekly consolidation effort that completely negates the point of online shopping's convenience.

What truly baffles me is the continued reliance of reputable companies on this utterly substandard service. Are they actively trying to alienate their customers? Are they so blinded by a few pennies saved that they fail to grasp the damage being done to their brand reputation by entrusting their premium products to this chaotic outfit? It's a bewildering disconnect. You pay good money for quality goods, only for them to be held hostage by a delivery "service" that couldn't organise a piss-up in a brewery.

Dealing with Evri is an exercise in futility. Their tracking system is about as reliable as a chocolate teapot, offering vague updates that rarely reflect reality. Contacting their customer service is like shouting into the void – you're met with automated responses, unhelpful agents, and a distinct lack of accountability.

Evri isn't just delaying deliveries; they're eroding consumer trust in online shopping. They are a blight on the e-commerce landscape, a constant source of irritation, and frankly, a disgrace. Companies need to wake up and realise that their delivery partner is an extension of their brand. By choosing Evri, they are actively choosing to provide a subpar experience and risk losing loyal customers who simply want their purchases to arrive in a timely and reliable manner.

In conclusion, if you see Evri listed as the delivery company for your next online purchase, run. Run far, run fast, and pray that the seller opts for a courier that actually understands the meaning of the word "delivery."

Evri? They're just a masterclass in how not to run a business. They should be renamed "Never-ri," because that's the most likely outcome for your precious parcels.

Farewell Fumbling, Hello Focused Tracking: My Dive into the World of GPS Pet Trackers

Let's be honest, the panic that sets in when your furry friend decides to go on an unscheduled adventure is a unique brand of terror. After my recent escapade with a Samsung Smart Tag, which, while initially successful, succumbed to the joys of the Cumbrian climate (who knew "water-resistant" wasn't "Cumbrian-weather-proof"?), I decided it was time to invest in a proper GPS pet tracker.

The market, as I quickly discovered, is awash with options. From budget-friendly tags to high-end, feature-packed devices, it's a veritable minefield. Tracktive, amongst others, kept popping up, but after much deliberation, I settled on PitPat, a company based in Cambridge.

Why PitPat? Well, for me, it came down to a few key factors:

• Upfront Cost, Long-Term Savings: I opted for their GPS tracker, which, while pricier initially, comes without a monthly subscription. This meant a bigger dent in my wallet upfront, but significant savings down the line. I'm not a fan of endless subscriptions, so this was a major plus.
• Robust Build and Weatherproofing: After my Smart Tag's soggy demise, a waterproof and durable design was paramount. PitPat's tracker boasts a sealed, waterproof case, promising to withstand the elements.
• Comprehensive Coverage: PitPat claims 99% UK coverage, thanks to their network deal with multiple mobile providers. This is vital for peace of mind, knowing I can track my pet almost anywhere.
• Simple App Integration: The tracker communicates with my phone via their app, providing real-time location updates. No range limitations, just a clear, precise ping on my phone's screen.

How it Works: A Peek Inside the Tech
The PitPat GPS tracker is a clever piece of kit. It houses a GPS module and a SIM card within its sealed casing. This allows it to determine its location and transmit that information to your phone via the mobile network. The app acts as the interface, allowing you to see your pet's location on a map.

Customer Reviews and Reputation

Before committing, I did my due diligence and looked into customer reviews. PitPat generally receives positive feedback, particularly regarding the accuracy of its GPS tracking and the durability of its devices. Many users appreciate the no-subscription model, highlighting the long-term cost-effectiveness. On Trustpilot, PitPat generally has positive reviews, with users mentioning reliable tracking and good customer service. As with any product, there are some negative reviews, usually regarding app glitches or occasional connectivity issues, but the overall sentiment is positive.

My Initial Impressions
Having used the PitPat GPS tracker for a short while now, I'm impressed. The setup was surprisingly simple. I downloaded the PitPat app onto my phone, scanned the barcode located on the tracker itself, and the rest of the configuration was handled automatically. It was refreshingly straightforward. The location updates are accurate and timely, and the peace of mind it provides is invaluable.

It's clear that investing in a quality GPS pet tracker can make a world of difference. Whether you're dealing with a curious escape artist or simply want the assurance of knowing where your pet is, a reliable tracker is a worthy investment. And for me, PitPat seems to tick all the boxes.

Have you had any experiences with GPS pet trackers? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The PitPat App

Peace of Mind on Four Paws: Samsung SmartTag

As a dog owner, the constant worry about your furry friend wandering too far is a familiar feeling. Especially when you're blessed with a dog like Bella, who loves to explore every nook and cranny on our walks. I've toyed with the idea of a GPS tracker for a while, but the subscription fees always seemed a bit steep, especially for a dog who's generally well-behaved. That's when I discovered the Samsung SmartTag 2.0, and it's been a game-changer.

Why I Opted for a SmartTag Over GPS (For Now)

The primary reason?

Cost. GPS trackers are undeniably powerful, offering real-time location updates. But for my needs, which mainly involve keeping an eye on Bella during our walks in familiar areas, the SmartTag 2.0 offered a compelling, subscription-free alternative.

What is the Samsung SmartTag 2.0?

Essentially, the SmartTag 2.0 is a small, lightweight Bluetooth tracker designed to help you locate your belongings. In my case, it’s attached to Bella's collar. It uses Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, which offers greater accuracy in pinpointing the tag's location compared to standard Bluetooth. Samsung claims a range of up to 120 metres, although real-world results will vary depending on obstacles and environmental factors.

How Does it Work?

The SmartTag 2.0 connects to your Samsung Galaxy smartphone via Bluetooth. When you're within range, you can use the SmartThings app to view the tag's location on a map. You can also trigger a loud ring on the tag to help you find it if it's nearby.

But here's where it gets clever: even if Bella wanders out of your Bluetooth range, the SmartTag 2.0 can still be located thanks to the Galaxy Find Network. This network leverages other Samsung Galaxy devices in the vicinity. When a nearby Galaxy phone detects your SmartTag, it anonymously relays its location to Samsung's servers, which then update the tag's location on your app.

My Week with the SmartTag 2.0

I've been using the SmartTag 2.0 for a week now, and I'm genuinely impressed. Here are my key takeaways:

• Ease of Use: Setting up the SmartTag was a breeze. Simply pair it with your phone via the SmartThings app, and you're good to go.
• Reassurance: Knowing that I can quickly check Bella's last known location gives me peace of mind when she's off-lead.
• Galaxy Find Network Reliability: I've been pleasantly surprised by how often the tag pings other Samsung phones. Even in relatively quiet areas, it seems the network is quite robust. I've seen the tag update its location even when I've lost direct bluetooth connection.
• Range Limitations: As expected, the 120-metre range is more of a theoretical maximum. In practice, the range is significantly shorter, especially in wooded areas or places with obstructions. However, for my typical walks, it's been sufficient. 
• Battery Life: Samsung claims a long battery life, and so far, so good. It's too early to give a definitive verdict, but I'm optimistic.
• Build Quality: The SmartTag 2.0 feels sturdy and well-built. It's also water-resistant, which is essential for a dog collar.

Is it a Replacement for GPS?

Not entirely. The SmartTag 2.0 is a fantastic tool for keeping track of your dog within a reasonable range. However, it doesn't offer real-time tracking like a GPS tracker. If Bella were to run off into a completely unknown area, a GPS tracker would be more effective.

Who is it For?

The Samsung SmartTag 2.0 is ideal for dog owners who:

• Walk their dogs in familiar areas.
• Want a cost-effective alternative to GPS tracking.
• Own a Samsung Galaxy smartphone.
• Want added peace of mind when their dog is off-lead.

Final Thoughts

For my needs, the Samsung SmartTag 2.0 has been a brilliant addition to our walks. It's given me the confidence to let Bella explore without constantly worrying about her disappearing. While it may not replace a GPS tracker for everyone, it's a fantastic, affordable option for many dog owners. If you're looking for a simple and reliable way to keep track of your furry friend, I highly recommend giving the SmartTag 2.0 a try.

AI Generated Image

My £30 Reciprocating Saw: A Marvel of Modern Engineering (Or Not)

Right, so, a few weeks back I did a thing. I bought a reciprocating saw. Now, I'm not exactly Bob the Builder, but occasionally a bit of DIY calls my name (usually something along the lines of "fix that wonky shelf" or "chop up that overgrown shrubbery before it takes over the entire garden"). So, I thought, a reciprocating saw! Perfect! Especially as I found one on eBay for under £30. Bargain, right? It was described as a "21V-Li Reciprocating Saw Cordless Hand Saw Electric Wood Metal Cutter 2x 2500mAh". Crikey, with a name like that, it practically sold itself.

It arrived in a lovely hard case, which immediately made me feel like a proper tradesperson. Inside, nestled amongst the plastic moulding, were the saw itself, two batteries, a selection of blades that looked like they'd been sharpened by a badger, and even a pair of safety gloves. All for under £30! I was practically giddy. I mean, who needs DeWalt when you've got… well, whatever this was?

Fast forward to yesterday. The sun was shining (sort of), the birds were singing (Starlings), and I had a job to do. An old wooden gate, destined for the great bonfire in the sky, needed to be halved. Now, the wood was a bit on the damp side, but hey, that's British weather for you. No biggie, I thought. My trusty new reciprocating saw would make short work of it.

Oh, how wrong I was.

Let's just say, my "marvel of modern engineering" struggled. I mean, really struggled. It kept stalling, like my first car trying to climb a hill. The blade seemed to be making about as much progress as a snail on a Raspberry tart. I swear I could practically hear the saw whimpering.

I persevered, naturally. I wrestled with the gate, coaxed the saw, and may have uttered a few choice words that would make a docker blush. After what felt like an eternity, I finally managed to hack through the wood. And here's the kicker: I reckon I could have done it faster with a handsaw. Yes, you read that right. A handsaw.

So, have I thrown my £30 down the drain? Possibly. It's looking that way. Maybe it'll be brilliant for cutting butter or something. Or perhaps it'll become a rather expensive paperweight. Anyone need a slightly temperamental, battery-powered paperweight? 

The moral of the story? Sometimes, you get what you pay for. And sometimes, you buy a reciprocating saw on eBay for under £30 and learn a valuable lesson about the limitations of budget power tools. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to buy a decent handsaw. And maybe a stiff drink.

I guess I should've read reviews first, before jumping into the abyss. 

Ditch the Cartridges: Embrace the Blade

For years, I was a slave to the multi-blade razor. Gillette, Wilkinson Sword, supermarket own brands – I tried them all. Remember those early electric shavers? Yeah, the less said about those skin-irritation nightmares, the better. I even dabbled with a humble Bic, which, surprisingly, did the job just fine. But then the razor manufacturers went mad.

More blades! They screamed. Five blades! Seven blades! It was a marketing frenzy, and my wallet has been suffering. Frankly, it all felt like nonsense. Shaving is ridiculously expensive. The sheer volume of choices is overwhelming.

Something had to change. That's when I decided to go old school. I decided to try a safety razor. Now, for those of you who only know shaving through the lens of plastic cartridges, a safety razor is what your grandad probably used. It's a classic tool, a beautifully simple instrument with a handle and a head that holds a single, replaceable blade.

I chose a reasonably priced model called the Yaqi Se Katana. Apparently, the company behind it used to manufacture shaving gear for other brands before deciding to create their own line. Smart move, in my opinion. The Katana uses a single blade – other safety razors use a double-edged blade, but I decided to keep it simple.

The Katana is made from Stainless Steel and is well balanced. The protruding blade is scary looking, but the well-designed head helps to produce a very smooth shave.

I paired the Katana with Derby Premium single edge blades, and let me tell you, the results were a revelation. My shaves are now incredibly smooth, and the cost? Forget about it!

I can get 100 Derby Premium single-edge blades for just over a fiver. That's a fraction of the cost of those fancy multi-blade cartridges, and the shave is far superior. For example, a pack of 4 Gillette Fusion blades will cost you around £13. Its a no brainier!

Seriously, I urge you to give a safety razor a try. You might be surprised.

Think about it: the first safety razor was invented way back in the 1700s! They were even issued to soldiers during World War I, solidifying their reputation as the go-to tool for a clean shave. Then, in the 1970s, the disposable cartridge razor appeared, and the multi-blade madness began.

But here's the truth: you don't need multiple blades. It's a marketing gimmick. Ditch the cartridges, embrace the single blade, and rediscover the joy of a truly great shave.

You might just thank me later.